On August 22, 2024, it was revealed that Queen Camilla experienced significant anxiety when she first met Prince William, needing a “gin and tonic” to calm her nerves afterward. According to royal author Christopher Andersen, Camilla was visibly trembling during their initial encounter, reflecting the complex and sensitive nature of their relationship. This anxiety stemmed from the fact that Camilla was previously labeled as the ‘other woman’ in Prince Charles’s marriage to Princess Diana, and meeting William, Diana’s son, was fraught with tension.
The relationship between Camilla and William, however, has evolved over time. Andersen noted that despite the shaky start, the bond between them has gradually improved, particularly after the departure of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle from royal duties in 2020. Insiders have suggested that this development, along with other factors such as Kate Middleton’s health and the family’s focus on avoiding additional drama, has played a role in fostering a better relationship between William and Camilla.
Kate Middleton has been instrumental in this progress. According to reports, she was one of the first royals to show Camilla kindness and support, setting a positive example for the rest of the family. In contrast, Prince Harry’s memoir “Spare” described ongoing tensions and skepticism towards Camilla, which had been a source of internal conflict within the royal family.
Overall, the relationship between Queen Camilla and Prince William, while still requiring work, has seen significant improvement as both parties have made efforts to bridge their differences and navigate the complex dynamics of the royal family.